Saskatoon

Overview

Known as Bridge City, Saskatoon is the largest city in Saskatchewan and the location of the Northwest Rebellion of 1885. Saskatoon’s rich culture has largely been preserved by the Aboriginal people who make up nearly 10 per cent of the city's population and through sites like Wanuskewin Heritage Park, Batoche National Heritage Site and Fort Carlton Provincial Park.

Saskatoon is also home to a lively arts and entertainment community, along with scores of festivals and events, performing arts, museums and galleries. Art enthusiasts will love the Mendel Art Gallery that houses a permanent collection of over 500 works. Then there’s TCU Place in Midtown Plaza, which plays host to numerous concerts and theatrical performances throughout the year.

For those who enjoy spending time outdoors, a trip to the fantastic Meewasin Valley Trail offers endless opportunities to explore the South Saskatchewan River. Paved pathways offer miles of great cycling, jogging and walking. You’ll also find seven golf courses spread throughout the city, offering challenging play for players of all skill levels.

Travelling with the whole family? Plan a visit to the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park Zoo – a distinct prairie experience complete with mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and even fish. For a daytrip, head to Beaver Creek Conservation Area. This large expanse of preserved land is an accredited wildlife site with many nature trails worth exploring. Blackstrap and Pike Lake Provincial Parks are also available for all sorts of activities – from camping, swimming and picnicking to canoeing, fishing and birdwatching.

Saskatoon is a fantastic destination for:

Destination basics

Home to hot summers and cold winters, Saskatoon experiences a wide range of temperatures as the seasons change. Summer highs generally fall in the mid 20s C, although it can get as hot as 40 C! But be sure to bring more than just tank tops during the warmer months. Rainy periods and thunderstorms are commonplace here, as are high winds. In the winter, guests will want to bring warm clothes and the full gamut of winter gear (hat, mittens, boots, coat, etc.).

District guide

Saskatoon is a multicultural city with a delightfully mixed crowd. Home to the University of Saskatchewan, it has a sizable student population, which in turn leads to an energetic atmosphere. Each of the neighborhoods in Saskatoon offers something special, be it historic venues, cultural hotspots, or pristine grasslands.

Central Business DistrictWhen locals refer to downtown Saskatoon, they’re talking about the Central Business District. Perched on the west bank of the South Saskatchewan River, this neighborhood has been abuzz since the railroad was introduced in the late-19th century. It holds several heritage buildings, including the Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist. A relaxing place to take a stroll or have a picnic, the Central Business District also houses a number of city parks. Inquire about festivals and local events when you visit, many of which take place in these lovely public spaces.

NutanaNutana is the oldest neighborhood in Saskatoon. True to its station as a historic center, it is packed with venerable landmarks, notably Trounce House and The Broadway Theatre. Broadway Avenue itself is an exciting attraction with a prominent commercial scene. You’ll find bars and restaurants, bakeries and artisan shops, boutiques and yoga studios, guaranteeing access to just about everything you might need during your stay. Located across the river from downtown Saskatoon, you won’t want to miss the Nutana neighborhood.

City ParkNot far from the Central Business District sits City Park, a charming neighborhood filled with captivating architecture and art. Watch an outdoor Shakespeare performance in the summer or wander the quaint streets then enjoy a picnic in Kinsmen Park. While you won’t find many facilities here, City Park’s proximity to the downtown area makes it worth exploring.

RiversdaleOne of the earliest settlements in Saskatoon, Riversdale has a long history that is evident in its many landmarks. Sites like the Roxy Theatre and Landa House demonstrate the significance of this historic neighborhood. Today, Riversdale is known for housing a large First Nations population, as well as hosting cultural events like the Saskatoon Farmers Market and Saskatchewan Native Theatre Company.

Varsity ViewGiven its proximity to the University of Saskatchewan, Varsity View is a popular neighborhood for student housing. While you won’t find many attractions here, you’ll be surrounded by amenities. If you find yourself in Varsity View, take advantage of the central location with a trip to the Field House for health and fitness or 8th Street East for a shopping spree.

SilverspringSilverspring sits on the east side of the South Saskatchewan River. It is one of the most naturally alluring neighborhoods in Saskatoon, owing to its swaths of undeveloped natural prairie grasslands. By far the biggest draw in Silverspring is the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park and Zoo. While it isn’t the busiest neighborhood in the city, it’s perhaps the best for nature and wildlife.

Entertainment

For a small city, Saskatoon packs a big punch, promising plenty of entertainment.

Outdoor ActivitiesBeyond a wealth of delightful provincial parks, Saskatoon has a rolling landscape that makes outdoor activities easy to come by. Catch the Meewasin Trail at the Sid Buckwold Bridge and follow it through the historic Saskatchewan Crescent. Grab your camera and hike around the scenic prairies of the Beaver Creek or Cranberry Flats Conservation Areas. For an outdoor activity that incorporates world-class wildlife, check out the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo, which houses such attractions as the Kinsmen Bear Exhibit, Kinsmen Children’s Zoo, and PotashCorp Ark.

GolfThe Willows Golf and Country Club is among the top golfing venues in Saskatoon. The four nine-hole sections of its prized 36-hole course feature challenges like silica bunkers and large water bodies. You’ll also find two signature holes, Island Green and Xena Peninsula Green, which are as scenic as they are fun. Otherwise, check out the Moon Lake Golf and Country Club.

MuseumsThere are several noteworthy museums in Saskatoon. One of four locations across the province, the Saskatchewan Western Development Museum in Saskatoon focuses on the early-20th century boomtown era. It holds both historic structures and captivating recreations, as well as an exhibit known as the Saskatchewan Agricultural Hall of Fame. Explore the museum’s Prairieland Park location and take in such exciting features as a homestead, police station, bank, newspaper office, general store, and dentist’s office.

If you’re interested in checking out old vehicles beyond the vintage cars at the Saskatchewan Western Development Museum, head to the Saskatchewan Railway Museum. There, you’ll find an impressive collection of railway memorabilia, including both streetcar and motorcar collections. Across town, you’ll experience a different kind of history at the Museum of Antiquities. It was started by two professors from the University of Saskatchewan and aims to celebrate Western civilization between 3,000 BC and 1,500 AD. Lovers of classical art movements will adore this attraction, which heavily features Greco-Roman antiquity.

ShoppingLocated in the Central Business District, Midtown Plaza is the main shopping destination in Saskatoon. Browse the directory and you’ll find stores housing everything from designer clothing to more affordable fashions, along with all the fixings of a major shopping center. If you prefer vintage finds, antiques, and artisan goods, you’ll be right at home on Broadway Avenue. The commercial section spans five blocks between Broadway Bridge and 8th Street East, also housing an array of restaurants and bars. For souvenirs, head to Second Avenue in downtown Saskatoon or the Riversdale neighborhood just west of the Central Business District.

Food and beverage

Saskatoon is home to a diverse population, meaning lots of variety in the culinary scene. You’ll find delicacies from across the globe as easily as Canadian staples and budget options alongside fine dining.

Central Business DistrictSome say that the best restaurant in all of Canada can be found in the Central Business District. Not far off the South Saskatchewan River, Ayden Kitchen & Bar serves Canadian comfort food like you’ve never seen before. Dishes are both homey and indulgent, pairing perfectly with an extensive wine list and inspired cocktail menu. Nearby is another upscale option, Truffles Bistro, which serves traditional French cuisine, a three-course menu, and a can’t-miss brunch.

Like any downtown area, the Central Business District in Saskatoon is also full of affordable joints, ranging from fast food to quaint cafes, and international cuisine. Satisfying both criteria is beloved Vietnamese joint Thien Vietnam Restaurant, where you’ll find fast service, great flavors, and lots of vegetarian options. Walk around between the river and Midtown Plaza and you’ll be surrounded by choices. You’ll also see a number of bars and pubs for when you want a drink, notably The Rook & Raven, which doubles as a great place to stop for a snack.

NutanaAt once a busy neighborhood and one that is largely residential, Nutana houses a number of fun eateries. Located on the bustling Broadway Avenue, Calories Restaurant is a local favorite, offering seasonal menus with both regional and international options. Head to Main Street instead if you’re in the mood for Pan-Latin and Caribbean treats. Las Palapas Resort Grill will transport you to the tropics with its authentic flavors and tiki-style decor. Although you won’t find as much nightlife here, there are plenty of watering holes to whet your whistle, like Irish-joint Yard & Flagon.

City ParkCity Park is a quiet neighborhood without much of a food scene. Although it has a handful of casual eateries, ranging from cafes to ice cream parlors, you’re better off heading to the nearby Central Business District for a bite.

RiversdaleSituated opposite Highway-11 from the Central Business District, the Riversdale neighborhood is a safe bet for a good meal. Cactus Club Cafe offers locally sourced global cuisine and an unbeatable happy hour while The Hollows boasts carefully curated seasonal menus and a historic location within the Golden Dragon building. To indulge your sweet tooth, head to Little Bird Patisserie & Cafe, which many locals rank among their favorite spots in Saskatoon. While you’ll find savory delights on the menu as well, this natural light-filled cafe really amazes with its baked goods.

Varsity ViewThere aren't many places to eat in Varsity View though its proximity to the University of Saskatchewan means a number of nearby dining options. Otherwise, head toward the bordering Holliston and Grosvenor Park neighborhoods for fast-food franchises and casual cafes.

SilverspringSilverspring isn't known for its amenities, but it isn't far from areas that are. If you get hungry exploring the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo, you’re only five minutes by car from almost anything you might be craving.

There are more Tim Horton’s per capita in Saskatoon than anywhere else in Canada.

OrientationSaskatoon is the largest city in the Saskatchewan province, located on the South Saskatchewan River. It is 259 kilometers (161 miles) northwest of Regina.

Historical background

Beginning around six millennia ago, members of the Cree and Métis First Nations occupied what is today Saskatoon. Its vast prairies and situation on the South Saskatchewan River created ample opportunities for hunting, creating a comfortable part-time home for the semi-nomadic peoples in the area. The first permanent Saskatoon settlement was established by Toronto Methodists led by John Neilson Lake in 1883. At the time, the Methodist community in Toronto was looking to evade the liquor trade that had swept the city, deciding on the rolling parklands of Saskatoon as the place to establish a temperance colony. Although the alcohol-free settlement did not soon take off, Lake is considered the founder of Saskatoon, and several sites around town bear his name.

Development in Saskatoon took hold after the arrival of the railroad, connecting Regina and Prince Albert across the South Saskatchewan River. In the first decade of the 20th century, Saskatoon saw the creation of the Riversdale and Nutana settlements, expansion of the railway and bridge systems, establishment of the provincial university, and increase in population from just over one hundred to several thousand. These events earned Saskatoon its reputation as “The Hub City,” a reputation that was further solidified following World War II, when the city saw another developmental boom.

During the WWII era, Saskatoon transitioned from a largely rural community to a more urban one, becoming a significant regional distribution and service center. In the following years, Midtown Plaza and the Idylwyld Freeway helped shaped the downtown area, and boundaries were redrawn. This development continued for several decades, redefining Saskatoon and bringing about the modern-day destination. Today, the city is the largest in the Saskatchewan province, continuing to serve as both a cultural and economic hotspot.

Recommended tours

Rich indigenous and pioneer histories, as well as swaths of gorgeous grassland, make Saskatoon well worth touring.

Wanuskewin Heritage ParkA National Historic Site of Canada, the Wanuskewin Heritage Park celebrates the millennia-old history and culture of the traditional First Nations inhabitants of the Saskatoon area. Start your tour of the heritage park and interpretive center by checking out The Galleries, which showcase works by aboriginal Northern Plains artists. After, explore the site’s natural beauty by following one of its many walking trails, where you’ll likely see some native wildlife. When you return, there may be a dance demonstration in progress. Keep an eye out for educational live shows, which are some of the most fascinating features of the park. After working up an appetite exploring the grounds, stop by the Wanuskewin Heritage Park Restaurant, then hit up the gift shop.

Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & ZooDive right into the wonders of the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo with a tour of its more than 80 resident species. Hop on the Kinsmen Express Train and let the knowledgeable guides take the lead as you whip around the zoo. Later, take time to walk around the tranquil Forestry Farm, a beloved National Historic Site. You’ll see botanic gardens like the Heritage Rose Garden, a fishing pond, and wide open space just begging to be explored. Pack a picnic when you visit, so you can set up a station at the onsite barbecues and picnic tables when you get hungry. With lush flora and incredible fauna, you’ll find more than enough to do to fill an afternoon at the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo.

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